Symptom Identification and Control Methods for Diseases and Pests of Buddha's Hand (Citrus medica var. sarcodactylis), a Chinese Medicinal Herb

Disease and Pest Control

(1) The main disease is sooty mold.

It first infects the leaf surface as small soot-gray spots, then gradually spreads to the entire leaf surface.

Control method: remove diseased leaves immediately, prune appropriately, and increase the application of phosphorus and potassium fertilizers.

(2) Longhorn beetles

The larvae bore into the branches and feed on the pith, so the branch tips appear withered and yellow.

Control method: cut off the branch about 3 cm away; if it is still hollow inside, keep cutting downward until the larva is found. Adults like to be active on the trunk at dusk and can be caught and killed.

(3) Aphids

They can be caught and killed by hand, or sprayed with tobacco water.

(4) Leaf miners and leaf rollers can be controlled by picking off the leaves and killing them.